HBA-BSM H.B. 3169 77(R) BILL ANALYSIS Office of House Bill AnalysisH.B. 3169 By: Thompson Judicial Affairs 3/20/2001 Introduced BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The state's 14 courts of appeals have varying caseloads. Some courts transfer out nearly 20 percent of their cases. Many courts are also in two appeals districts, which creates some confusion over which court of appeals to appeal to and may also lead to forum shopping. By reapportioning the appeals courts, a better balance may be achieved and a more convenient access to the appeals court. House Bill 3169 abolishes the present appeals districts and places all counties into two separate appeals districts. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution. ANALYSIS House Bill 3169 amends the Government Code by repealing provisions relating to the 14 courts of appeals. The bill divides the state into two courts of appeals districts with a court of appeals in each district. The bill sets forth the counties which comprise each district. EFFECTIVE DATE December 31, 2003.